CHELMSFORD – Roston Chase made an enterprising start to his maiden tour of England, leading a trio of half-century makers as West Indies prospered on the first day of their opening tour match against Essex yesterday.
Sent in at the Essex County Ground, the Caribbean side reached 309 for eight courtesy of Chase’s top-score of 81. Fellow Barbadian Kraigg Brathwaite weighed anchor for three hours, 40 minutes before he departed on 61 just before tea to a terrific delivery from rookie 20-year-old seamer Callum Taylor.
Jamaican Jermaine Blackwood made an aggressive 59. Wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich ended the day unbeaten on 28 while brothers Shai and Kyle Hope both got 22 but failed to carry on.
Up against an under-strength side, with Essex choosing to rest five key players in view of Sunday’s County Championship clash against Yorkshire, the Windies made the most of the opportunity with key batsmen getting among the runs. (CMC)
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